When attending a college tour, it’s important to come prepared for the visit to make the most of the experience. Unless you are attending a virtual tour, you won’t have an opportunity to get items you may have forgotten or not considered bringing along. Here are some essential items to bring:
Essentials
- Comfortable Shoes: College tours often involve a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The day can change from a cold morning to a hot afternoon so dress in layers that can be easily removed. More than dressing for unpredictable weather, you should also dress for the possibility of meetings with admissions counselors, financial aid advisors or other decision makers. Find a balance between dressing comfortably and making a good first impression.
- Notebook and Pen: Take notes on important information, special contact people you can follow-up with, and any answers to questions that come up during the tour.
- Smartphone: Useful for taking photos, navigating the campus map, and noting down contact details or other information.
- Backpack or Bag: This is helpful for carrying the items you bring along and any handouts you receive, allowing you to be comfortably hands free.
Planning and Information
- Printed Schedule: Bring a copy of your tour schedule, including times and locations for parking and any specific sessions.
- Campus Map: Often provided by the college but having your own copy can be helpful for navigating the campus.
- List of Questions: Prepare a list of questions in advance to ensure you get all the information you need about academics, deadline for applying, student life and financial aid, etc.
- Admission Materials: Brochures, pamphlets, admissions office contact information or any other materials sent by the college beforehand.
Personal Items
- Snacks: To keep your energy up during a long tour.
- Water Bottle: Stay cool and hydrated, especially on hot days. Tours can range on length from 1 to 3 hours and food is often not provided.
- Umbrella or Rain Jacket: The weather can change unexpectedly from bright and sunny to gray skies and rain.
- Sunglasses and Hat: There will be a lot of time spent standing in the open while the tour guide explains important facts about nearby buildings, stadiums and open spaces. Sunglasses and a hat will help make the tour easier to appreciate. Also don’t forget the sunscreen for those hot days.
- Hand Sanitizer: For quick sanitation when needed.
An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest. – Benjamin Franklin
Documents
- Photo ID: Some tours may require identification for check-in.
- Confirmation Emails or Tickets: Any documentation confirming your tour booking or appointments with faculty or admissions counselors.
Optional Items
- Portable Charger: To ensure your phone remains charged throughout the tour.
- Camera: If you prefer taking higher-quality photos than what your smartphone offers.
- Academic Transcripts/Resume: For potential meetings with admissions officers or faculty members.
Bringing these items will help you stay organized, comfortable, and prepared, ensuring you get the most out of your college tour experience. Always remember the 5 P’s. Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance. Be on time and definitely be prepared for your college tour, whether virtual or in person.
Get prepared for your next college tour by checking out the blog post What to Expect on a College Tour.